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Acceleration
"Both engines added power for '05. No V6 models yet available for testing. Also
unable yet to time V8s, but they feel little faster than before. Still, they
should run 0-60 mph in a respectable 9.0 sec or less. Smooth, responsive automatic
transmission helps. Heavier Double Cabs seem sluggish, especially with 4WD. Towing
limits: 5000 lb with V6, 7200 with V8."
Value
"Tundra doesn't offer as much power as most other big pickups, so it's less of
a workhorse. Still, it earns our Recommended badge for the usual Toyota virtues
of high refinement, solid workmanship, and an enviable reputation for reliability
and resale value."
Ride
"More comfortable than most rivals, but still stiff and trucky, with plenty of
jiggle and tire patter on broken surfaces and freeway expansion joints."
Economy
No opportunity yet to measure latest engines. But EPA estimates and previous extended-use-test models suggest sub-14-mpg overall averages--on par with comparable domestics in our tests. Toyota recommends regular-grade fuel for both engines.
Noise
"Near carlike refinement, particularly with smooth-running V8. Typical big-truck
wind rush at highway speeds and coarse-pavement tire thrum, but both are modest
for the class."
Comfort - Front
"Class competitive for two adults, but relatively narrow cabin on regulars and
Access Cabs, tight for three on available bench. Ride height little different
between 2WD and 4WD models--and steep enough to make entry/exit a leg-stretching
chore."
Comfort - Rear
"Access Cab suffers limited leg room and entry/exit space, plus a fairly narrow
seat with thin padding and bolt-upright backrest. Double Cab offers ample leg
space, good head room, easier ingress/egress, plus a wider bench seat more comfortable
for three, though the backrest is poorly shaped for a middle rider."
Controls
"Clear, simple, well-organized, though it's easy to trip the wiper stalk by accident
on automatic models because the transmission's column-mounted lever is so nearby.
Power rear window a nice standard touch on Access and Double Cabs. Impressive
cabin materials, workmanship."
Cargo Room
"Decent small-item storage. Rear cargo room only OK in Access Cabs, generous
in Double Cabs."
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